Abuja: The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports claiming more than 40 soldiers died in recent terrorist attacks in parts of Borno, describing the allegation as exaggerated and misleading.
In a statement on Saturday, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba said the report ignored troops’ gallant efforts in repelling coordinated terrorist assaults on several North-East communities.
Uba, Media Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, said the attackers were remnants of Boko Haram earlier dislodged from Sambisa Forest.
He said the terrorists regrouped and launched coordinated night assaults on Konduga, Ngoshe, Mainok, and Jakana, targeting both communities and military positions.
According to him, troops swiftly engaged and repelled the insurgents, defending the affected areas.
He said: “During the engagements, several terrorists were neutralised.
“Sadly, a Commanding Officer and some brave soldiers lost their lives during the battles to repel the attackers and protect the affected communities. These losses occurred while troops defended both military positions and civilians from being overrun.”
Uba stressed that troops were not overrun and fought to protect civilians and restore normalcy.
He added that the attackers used indiscriminate explosives and heavy nighttime gunfire, leading to civilian casualties as some residents were caught in the crossfire.
Uba also disclosed that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu visited Maiduguri to assess the situation and strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
He said the army chief ordered immediate reinforcement of troops and deployment of additional equipment to sustain pressure on fleeing terrorists.
Uba added that coordinated ground and air operations were ongoing to pursue the insurgents, dismantle regrouping elements and rescue civilians possibly abducted during the attacks.
He urged the public to disregard exaggerated reports aimed at undermining troops’ morale.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute and unwavering in its commitment to decisively confront the terrorists.
The Army will not relent until lasting peace and security are fully restored in the North-East. We urge Nigerians to continue their support and remain confident in our ongoing operations,” he said.
